How to ace the AWS Certified Solutions Architect Exam
The AWS Certified Solutions Architect exam is a high-value certification for IT professionals looking to validate their expertise in designing and deploying scalable systems on AWS. Passing this certification can open doors to advanced career opportunities by demonstrating your proficiency in AWS architecture. But, it’s no walk in the park.
Preparing for the exam requires a solid study plan, a deep understanding of AWS services —and ideally, some hands-on practical experience. In this article, we’ll share some tips and tricks to help you prepare effectively for the AWS Certified Solutions Architect exam —so you can ace the test, and kick-start your career.
Why sit the AWS Certified Solutions Architect Certification?
Put simply, achieving this certification is a huge boon for your credibility. It shows, certifiably, that you have the ability to:
- Design resilient architectures
- Implement security best practices when architecting in AWS environments
- Optimise the performance of your solutions
- Manage AWS resources to minimise costs while maximising outcomes
This certification is ideal for solutions architects, system administrators, and developers who design and deploy applications in the AWS cloud. For employees, it shows you’ve got the skills you say you do (making you more employable). For employers, having team members who are certified means you’re more likely to deliver projects to high standards, and achieve business outcomes more readily.
Tips for preparing for the exam
So you’ve decided to make the jump, and get certified. What’s next? Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Complete the official AWS Solutions Architect Course
One of the best ways to ramp up your knowledge, try the labs, and get your questions answered from a live Champion instructor, is to attend the associate level, 3-day Architecting on AWS instructor-led course.
This immersive experience will keep you focused on exactly what you need to learn about solutions architecture, including identifying services and features to build resilient, secure and highly available IT solutions on the AWS Cloud.
Understand the exam blueprint
Start by reviewing the official AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate exam guide. This guide outlines the domains covered in the exam, including design, implementation, cost management, and security. Understanding the exam’s structure will help you focus your study efforts on the most critical topics.
Tap into AWS resources
AWS provides a few great whitepapers and resources that cover best practices and architectural principles. Some essential resources to take a look at are:
- AWS Well-Architected Framework: Focuses on building secure, high-performing, resilient, and efficient infrastructures.
- AWS Architecture Centre: Essential hub for understanding security, architecture and best practices to employ within AWS.
Get some hands-on experience
Practical experience is crucial for passing the exam. Use the AWS Free Tier to experiment with AWS services as much as you can. Build and deploy sample applications to understand how different services interact. Hands-on labs and projects will solidify your knowledge and prepare you for scenario-based exam questions —the more practice you can get, the better!
Practice with exam simulators
Exam simulators are an excellent way to test your knowledge and get comfortable with the exam format. Practice exams can help you identify areas where you need further study and build confidence in your ability to handle the time constraints of the exam. Although they aren’t free, they are worth every penny when it comes to preparing you for what’s ahead. The AWS Training and Certification Practice Exam is available directly through AWS.
Revise, revise, revise
Regular review is key to retaining information. Set aside time each week to revisit key concepts and practice scenarios. Focus on areas where you feel less confident, and use flashcards or summary notes to reinforce your understanding.
Feeling stuck? Get a little extra help from an expert
If you feel like you could benefit from a bit of extra hands-on support, our expert instructors here at Bespoke can guide you every step of the way. With practical training and real-world scenarios, our courses are designed to ensure you not only understand the material but can apply it effectively in your work —and in your exam.
Get ready to take your career to new heights
The AWS Certified Solutions Architect exam is a challenging but rewarding certification that requires a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical experience.
At Bespoke Training, we can help give you the skills you need to ace your exam and hit your AWS certification goals. Our expert-led courses are designed to bridge the gap between theory and practical application, providing you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the world of cloud.
Ready to take the next step in your AWS journey? Explore our training directory, and courses like our Architecting deep-dive, or get in touch today to find your tailored learning path.
